Clinical pastoral education

Duke Health's Clinical Education program is accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education. CPE has been offered at Duke for more than 50 years. We believe excellent training leads to excellent care.

Interfaith professional education for ministry

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is an interfaith professional education for ministry. People in CPE engage others in crisis and learn from that interaction under the supervision of a certified pastoral educator. CPE is learning that happens in a group setting where students receive and offer feedback on their pastoral ministry. CPE makes the best use of the disciplines of theology, behavioral sciences, and adult education.

CPE is offered at Duke University Hospital and Duke Raleigh Hospital. CPE students have access to the resources of the Duke Divinity School, the Duke University Schools of Medicine and Nursing, and the Center for Spirituality, Theology, and Health. Students are encouraged to use these schools' libraries and their research resources and seminars as part of their CPE learning experience.

Students collaborate in the care of patients and families with the health care team, which comprises dedicated professionals and students from various disciplines. CPE students also learn with and from CPE supervisors, clinical staff chaplains and clinically trained pastoral care volunteers who have a deep passion for pastoral care and theological education.